Pubic louse (or Crab louse)

Natural Habitat

Exclusively on humans, primarily in pubic and perianal areas, but can also be found in coarse hair like armpits, beards, or eyelashes.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophage; they feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They are slow-moving and use their large, crab-like claws to grasp hair shafts. They cannot jump or fly. They lay eggs (nits) that are glued to the base of hairs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intense itching (pruritus) due to an allergic reaction to their saliva and potential secondary skin infections from scratching. They are typically transmitted through close physical contact. They provide no known ecosystem benefits.

Identified on: 2/26/2026